WO2018102664A1 - Appareil de manipulation de dispositifs auditifs - Google Patents

Appareil de manipulation de dispositifs auditifs Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2018102664A1
WO2018102664A1 PCT/US2017/064180 US2017064180W WO2018102664A1 WO 2018102664 A1 WO2018102664 A1 WO 2018102664A1 US 2017064180 W US2017064180 W US 2017064180W WO 2018102664 A1 WO2018102664 A1 WO 2018102664A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
ear
subject
ear device
elongated section
magnetic
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2017/064180
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Iyad Saidi
Original Assignee
Earplace Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Earplace Inc. filed Critical Earplace Inc.
Priority to EP17875211.9A priority Critical patent/EP3549357A4/fr
Priority to US16/465,883 priority patent/US11564042B2/en
Publication of WO2018102664A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018102664A1/fr
Priority to US18/066,009 priority patent/US20230224647A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/01—Measuring temperature of body parts ; Diagnostic temperature sensing, e.g. for malignant or inflamed tissue
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
    • A61B5/02438—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate with portable devices, e.g. worn by the patient
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/14532—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue for measuring glucose, e.g. by tissue impedance measurement
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/14542—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue for measuring blood gases
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/14546—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue for measuring analytes not otherwise provided for, e.g. ions, cytochromes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/369—Electroencephalography [EEG]
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6814—Head
    • A61B5/6815—Ear
    • A61B5/6816—Ear lobe
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6814—Head
    • A61B5/6815—Ear
    • A61B5/6817—Ear canal
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/72—Signal processing specially adapted for physiological signals or for diagnostic purposes
    • A61B5/7271—Specific aspects of physiological measurement analysis
    • A61B5/7275—Determining trends in physiological measurement data; Predicting development of a medical condition based on physiological measurements, e.g. determining a risk factor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N2/00—Magnetotherapy
    • A61N2/004—Magnetotherapy specially adapted for a specific therapy
    • A61N2/006—Magnetotherapy specially adapted for a specific therapy for magnetic stimulation of nerve tissue
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N2/00—Magnetotherapy
    • A61N2/02—Magnetotherapy using magnetic fields produced by coils, including single turn loops or electromagnets
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10K—SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES; METHODS OR DEVICES FOR PROTECTING AGAINST, OR FOR DAMPING, NOISE OR OTHER ACOUSTIC WAVES IN GENERAL; ACOUSTICS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G10K11/00—Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in general; Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
    • G10K11/16—Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
    • G10K11/175—Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound
    • G10K11/178—Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/55—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired
    • H04R25/554—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired using a wireless connection, e.g. between microphone and amplifier or using Tcoils
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/75—Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2503/00—Evaluating a particular growth phase or type of persons or animals
    • A61B2503/06—Children, e.g. for attention deficit diagnosis
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2503/00—Evaluating a particular growth phase or type of persons or animals
    • A61B2503/12—Healthy persons not otherwise provided for, e.g. subjects of a marketing survey
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2503/00—Evaluating a particular growth phase or type of persons or animals
    • A61B2503/40—Animals
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00—Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/04—Constructional details of apparatus
    • A61B2560/0475—Special features of memory means, e.g. removable memory cards
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00—Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/06—Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/063—Devices specially adapted for delivering implantable medical measuring apparatus
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10K—SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES; METHODS OR DEVICES FOR PROTECTING AGAINST, OR FOR DAMPING, NOISE OR OTHER ACOUSTIC WAVES IN GENERAL; ACOUSTICS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G10K2210/00—Details of active noise control [ANC] covered by G10K11/178 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • G10K2210/10—Applications
    • G10K2210/108—Communication systems, e.g. where useful sound is kept and noise is cancelled
    • G10K2210/1081—Earphones, e.g. for telephones, ear protectors or headsets
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R1/00—Details of transducers, loudspeakers or microphones
    • H04R1/10—Earpieces; Attachments therefor ; Earphones; Monophonic headphones
    • H04R1/1016—Earpieces of the intra-aural type
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R1/00—Details of transducers, loudspeakers or microphones
    • H04R1/10—Earpieces; Attachments therefor ; Earphones; Monophonic headphones
    • H04R1/1058—Manufacture or assembly
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/023—Completely in the canal [CIC] hearing aids
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/61—Aspects relating to mechanical or electronic switches or control elements, e.g. functioning
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2420/00—Details of connection covered by H04R, not provided for in its groups
    • H04R2420/07—Applications of wireless loudspeakers or wireless microphones
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2460/00—Details of hearing devices, i.e. of ear- or headphones covered by H04R1/10 or H04R5/033 but not provided for in any of their subgroups, or of hearing aids covered by H04R25/00 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2460/01—Hearing devices using active noise cancellation
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2460/00—Details of hearing devices, i.e. of ear- or headphones covered by H04R1/10 or H04R5/033 but not provided for in any of their subgroups, or of hearing aids covered by H04R25/00 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2460/09—Non-occlusive ear tips, i.e. leaving the ear canal open, for both custom and non-custom tips
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2460/00—Details of hearing devices, i.e. of ear- or headphones covered by H04R1/10 or H04R5/033 but not provided for in any of their subgroups, or of hearing aids covered by H04R25/00 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2460/17—Hearing device specific tools used for storing or handling hearing devices or parts thereof, e.g. placement in the ear, replacement of cerumen barriers, repair, cleaning hearing devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
    • H04R25/603—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of mechanical or electronic switches or control elements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
    • H04R25/652—Ear tips; Ear moulds
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
    • H04R25/658—Manufacture of housing parts

Definitions

  • apparatuses comprising: (a) an elongated section; (b) a stop section associated with the elongated section; where the stop section can contact a portion of an ear of the subject when the elongated section is inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject; (c) an electromagnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; where the electromagnet can be magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with the ear device; and (d) a power source and a switch electronically connected to the electromagnet; where the switch can turn the
  • apparatuses comprising: (a) an elongated section; (b) a stop section associated with the elongated section; where the stop section contacts a portion of an ear of a subject when the elongated section is inserted into an ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject; and (c) a magnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; where the magnet is magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with an ear device.
  • the apparatus is configured to hold the ear device via at least a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic element of the ear device during the insertion of the apparatus into the ear, thereby inserting the ear device into the ear.
  • the ear device is sized to the ear of the subject, such that when the ear device is inserted in the ear at a predetermined position and the apparatus is removed from the ear of the subject, a friction between the ear and the ear device overcomes the magnetic attraction to detach the ear device from the apparatus, thereby retaining the ear device at the predetermined position.
  • the magnet can be a permanent magnet.
  • the elongated section can be an arm.
  • the stop section can be a flange.
  • the flange can comprise a handle.
  • the stop section can be associated with a second end of the ⁇ ⁇ » * ⁇ opti on [0005]
  • the apparatus can be an apparatus for inserting an ear device.
  • the apparatus can be an apparatus for removing an ear device.
  • the apparatus can be an apparatus for manipulating an ear device.
  • the ear device can comprise a storage medium.
  • the storage medium can be a flash memory.
  • the magnetic element of the ear device can be a ferromagnetic element. In some embodiments, the magnetic element of the ear device can be a ferrimagnetic element. In some embodiments, the magnetic element of the ear device can be an
  • the ear device can be a communication device.
  • the communication device can be a recording device.
  • the communication device can be a transmission device.
  • the transmission device can be a device for transmitting a location.
  • the transmission device can transmit signals electronically.
  • the communication device can be a receiving device.
  • the receiving device can be a device for receiving a location.
  • the receiving device can receive signals electronically.
  • the communication device can be a translation device.
  • the communication device can be a key fob. In some cases, the key fob can be used for authentication. In some cases, the communication device can be an authentication device.
  • the ear device can be a magnet.
  • the ear device can be an earplug.
  • the earplug can comprise a foam material.
  • the earplug can at least partially regulate pressure transmitted into the ear of the subject.
  • the earplug can at least partially regulate sound waves transmitted into the ear of the subject.
  • the ear device can further comprise a noise canceling element, where the noise canceling element transmits destructive interference when engaged.
  • the destructive interference can at least partially ameliorate tinnitus.
  • the ear device can further comprise a magnetic field generator.
  • the magnetic field generator can at least partially ameliorate a disorder when engaged.
  • the disorder can be selected from the group consisting of a migraine; a loss of taste; a loss of smell; Parkinson disease; a depression disorder; major depression disorder; and any combination thereof.
  • the ear device can be a diagnostic device.
  • the diagnostic device can detect electrical signals in a brain of the subject.
  • the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a dissolved oxygen level in a blood vessel of the subject.
  • the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a mil e of the subject.
  • the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a glucose level in a blood vessel of the subject.
  • the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a body temperature of the subject.
  • the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a salinity level in a blood vessel of the subject.
  • the detection can further comprise a determination of a likelihood of a cardiovascular disease.
  • the cardiovascular disease can comprise a stroke.
  • the cardiovascular disease can comprise a heart attack.
  • the subject can be a mammal.
  • the mammal can be selected from the group consisting of a primate, a horse, a cat, a dog, a cow, and a rodent.
  • the subject can be a human.
  • the human can be an adult.
  • the human can be a child.
  • the human can be from about age 0 to 18 years old.
  • the human can be from about age 18 to 130 years old.
  • the ear device can comprise jewelry.
  • the ear device can be an earring.
  • the jewelry can be non-piercing.
  • the ear device can comprise an outer layer of cotton.
  • the elongated section can be flexible. In some embodiments, the elongated section can be semi-flexible. In some embodiments, the elongated section can be rigid. In some cases, the elongated section can be composed at least in part of a material selected from the group consisting of a plastic, a silicon, a wood, a metal, a rubber, a thermoplastic
  • the elongated section can be composed at least in part of recyclable material. In some cases, the elongated section can be custom molded to the subject's ear.
  • the elongated section can be at least partially collapsible.
  • the elongated section when at least partially collapsed can have a length of at most about 3 cm, at most about 2.5 cm, at most about 2 cm, at most about 1.5 cm, at most about 1 cm, at most about 0.5 cm, at most about 0.4 cm, at most about 0.3 cm, at most about 0.2 cm, at most about 0.1 cm, or at most about 0.05 cm.
  • the apparatus can be at least partially reusable. In some embodiments, the apparatus can be at least partially a single use apparatus. In some
  • the apparatus can be at least partially biodegradable.
  • the apparatus can further comprise a light. In some cases, the apparatus can further comprise a camera. [0021] In some embodiments, the elongated section does not comprise a pin, a metal rod, a spring, or a combination thereof disposed in the elongated section.
  • the electromagnet can be attached to the first end of the elongated section in a fixed manner. In some embodiments, the electromagnet can be at least partially rotatable along the first end of the elongated section. In some embodiments, the apparatus can further comprise at least one additional magnet. In some cases, the apparatus can comprise an array of magnets. In some cases, the array of magnets can be configured to actuate sequentially.
  • the elongated section and the stop section can constitute a part of a conical article.
  • the stop section can have a diameter greater than a diameter of a subject's ear canal.
  • the conical article can be flexible.
  • the conical article can be semi-flexible.
  • the conical article can be rigid.
  • the apparatus can comprise an orientation restriction section that is configured to maintain an orientation of the ear device consistent with an orientation of the apparatus during insertion of the ear device into the ear.
  • the orientation restriction section can restrict the orientation of the ear device at least in part by mechanical force, electrostatic force, magnetic force, or any combination thereof.
  • the orientation restriction section can comprise a hollow structure adapted to engage at least part of the ear device.
  • the orientation restriction section can be an extension of the elongated section of the apparatus.
  • the method can further comprise activating the switch on the apparatus and thereby turning off the electromagnet; thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet.
  • the method can further comprise removing the apparatus.
  • the method can further comprise activating a switch on the apparatus prior to (b).
  • the magnetic element can be associated with the ear device through a linker, and the removing can comprise: (a) removing the apparatus until the magnetic element and at least a portion of the linker are outside of the ear; and (b) removing the ear device.
  • the removing the device can comprise pulling the magnetic element, the linker, or both until the ear device is removed out of the ear.
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of manipulating an ear device that comprises a magnetic element comprising: (a) providing an insertion apparatus, the insertion apparatus comprising (1) an elongated section; (2) a stop section associated with the elongated section; wherein the stop section contacts a portion of the ear when the elongated section is inserted into an ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject; and (3) a magnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; wherein the magnet is magnetically attracted to the magnetic element of the ear device; (b) inserting the insertion apparatus into the ear of the subject, wherein the insertion apparatus is configured to hold the ear device during the insertion via at least a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic element of the ear device, thereby inserting the ear device into the ear, and (c) removing the insertion apparatus from the ear of the subject after the ear device is inserted in the ear at a
  • the method of manipulating the ear device can further comprise: (d) providing a removal apparatus, the removal apparatus comprising an elongated section and a magnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; (e) inserting the removal apparatus into the ear of the subject in such a manner to produce a magnetic attraction between the magnet of the removal apparatus and the ear device; and (f) removing the removal apparatus from the ear of the subject, wherein the removal apparatus is configured to hold the ear device during the removal via at least a magnetic attraction between the removal apparatus and the magnetic element of the device, and wherein the magnetic attraction is configured to overcome the friction, thereby pulling the ear device out of the ear when the apparatus is being removed from the ear.
  • the magnet can be a permanent magnet.
  • the manipulating of the ear device can be a rotation of the ear device. In some cases, the manipulating of the ear device can be a distal translation of ear device. In some cases, the manipulating of the ear device can be a proximal translation of the ear device.
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of concealing an ear device comprising a magnetic element deep into an ear of a subject comprising: (a) inserting an apparatus disclosed herein into the ear of the subject, where the apparatus can be in contact with the magnetic element of the ear device through a magnetic attraction; (b) deactivating the electromagnet; thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet; and
  • the method can further comprise activating a switch on the apparatus prior to (b).
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of ameliorating loss of a magnetic wireless earphone comprising: (a) inserting an apparatus disclosed herein into the ear of the subject, where the apparatus can be in contact with the magnetic element of the ear device through a magnetic attraction; (b) deactivating the electromagnet; thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet; (c) removing the apparatus; and
  • the method can further comprise activating a switch on the apparatus prior to (b).
  • kits comprising: (a) an apparatus disclosed herein; and (b) instructions for use.
  • the kit can further comprise an ear device.
  • the ear device can comprise a storage medium.
  • the storage medium can be a flash memory.
  • the ear device can be a communication device.
  • the communication device can be a recording device.
  • the communication device can be a transmission device.
  • the communication device can be a translation device.
  • the ear device can be an earplug.
  • the earplug can comprise a foam material.
  • the earplug can at least partially regulate pressure transmitted into the ear of the subject.
  • the earplug can at least partially regulate sound waves transmitted into the ear of the subject.
  • the ear device can further comprise a noise canceling element, where the noise canceling element can transmit destructive interference when engaged.
  • the destructive interference can at least partially ameliorate tinnitus.
  • the ear device can further comprise a magnetic field generator.
  • the magnetic field generator can at least partially ameliorate a disorder when engaged.
  • the disorder can be selected from the group consisting of a migraine; a loss of taste; a loss of smell; Parkinson disease; a depression disorder; major depression disorder; and any combination thereof.
  • the ear device can be a diagnostic device.
  • the diagnostic device can detect electrical signals in a brain of the subject. In some cases, the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a dissolved oxygen level in a blood vessel of the subject. In some cases, the diagnostic device can detect a signal that correlates to a pulse of the subject. In some cases, the detection can further comprise a determination of a likelihood of a cardiovascular disease. In some cases, the cardiovascular disease can comprise a stroke. In some cases, the cardiovascular disease can comprise a heart attack. In some instances, the ear device can be in wireless communication with another device. In some cases, the wireless communication can be selected from the group consisting of
  • the ear device can comprise jewelry.
  • the ear device can be an earring.
  • the jewelry can be non-piercing.
  • the ear device can comprise an outer layer of cotton.
  • kits comprising: (a) packaging an apparatus disclosed herein; and (b) combining the apparatus of (a) with instructions for use.
  • the method can further comprise combining the apparatus of (a) with an ear device.
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of manufacturing an apparatus comprising: (a) attaching an electromagnet to a first end of an elongated section of the apparatus; and (b) electrically connecting a power source and a switch to the electromagnet, where the switch turns the electromagnet on and off.
  • the method can further comprise attaching a stop section to a second end of the elongated section of the apparatus; where the stop section contacts a portion of an ear of a subject when the elongated section is inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject.
  • ear devices comprising a magnetic switch, the magnetic switch being maneuverable by a magnetic force to switch the ear device between different work modes.
  • the ear device can regulate pressure or acoustic waves transmitted therethrough at different efficiencies.
  • kits comprising an apparatus disclosed herein, and an ear device that comprises a magnetic switch, the magnetic switch being maneuverable by a magnetic force to switch the ear device between different work modes.
  • the ear device can regulate pressure or acoustic waves transmitted therethrough at different efficiencies.
  • Fig. 1 depicts a diagram of the ear canal.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an ear device containing a magnetic element in association with an apparatus described herein.
  • FIG. 3 depicts an apparatus containing a conical article for manipulation of an ear device.
  • Fig. 4 depicts an embodiment of an apparatus described herein which contains a flexible arm component.
  • Fig. 5 depicts an embodiment of an apparatus described herein containing a mechanical actuator to modulate the position of the magnet.
  • FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of an apparatus described herein which can be used to rotate an ear device within the ear of a subject.
  • Fig. 7 depicts an apparatus which comprises a pair of magnets.
  • Fig. 8 depicts a rotation of a distal magnet through mechanical actuation of a translatable magnet.
  • Fig. 9 depicts a pair of devices in which an insertion device without a magnetic means is used to insert an ear device while a retrieval device containing a magnetic means is used to retrieve the ear device.
  • Fig. 10 depicts an apparatus containing an orientation restriction section and an apparatus that does not contain an orientation restriction section.
  • Figs. 11A-11C depict a process of manipulating an ear device that comprises a spring that associates a magnet to the ear device.
  • Fig. 11 A shows an insertion device in magnetic attraction with the ear device.
  • Figure 1 IB shows a removal device that can be used to remove the ear device from the ear canal.
  • the magnetic element can be removed from the ear canal without removing the entire ear device.
  • the ear device can be removed from the ear canal by pulling on the magnetic element attached to the ear device by the spring.
  • Fig. 12 depicts an earplug that comprises a magnetic switch that is maneuverable by a magnetic force to switch the earplug between "ON” and “OFF” states.
  • Fig. 13 depicts a magnetic earphone and a discoidal magnet, which work to ameliorate the loss of the ear phone from the ear.
  • Fig. 14 shows a picture of an insertion tool and a removal tool, as well as a picture of earplugs with and without flange.
  • FIG. 15 shows pictures of two different types of gripping (handpiece grip and "Q-tip" grip) the apparatus disclosed herein.
  • Fig. 16 shows a series of pictures demonstrating a process of inserting an earplug into an ear model and removing the earplug from the ear model using an insertion tool and a removal tool, respectively.
  • Fig. 1 depicts an illustration of an ear canal.
  • the apparatuses can comprise: (a) an elongated section; (b) a stop section associated with the elongated section; where the stop section contacts a portion of an ear of the subject when the elongated section is inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject; (c) an electromagnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; where the electromagnet is magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with the ear device; and (d) a power source and a switch electronically connected to the
  • the apparatus can comprise: (a) a conical article having a narrow end and a wide end; (b) an electromagnet associated with the narrow end of the conical article; where the electromagnet is magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with an ear device; and (c)
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of concealing an ear device comprising a magnetic element deep into an ear of a subject comprising: (a) inserting an apparatus described herein into the ear of the subject, where the apparatus is in contact with the magnetic element of the ear device through a magnetic attraction; (b) deactivating the electromagnet; thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet; and (c) removing the apparatus; where the ear device, when inserted, is not visible from the outside of the ear; thereby concealing the ear device within the ear of the subject.
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of ameliorating loss of a magnetic wireless earphone comprising: (a) inserting an apparatus disclosed herein into the ear of the subject, where the ear device is magnet and can comprise a magnetic element, and where the apparatus is in contact with the magnetic element of the ear device through a magnetic attraction; (b) deactivating the electromagnet; thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet; (c) removing the apparatus; and (d) inserting the magnetic wireless earphone into the ear of the subject; where the magnetic wireless earphone is magnetically attracted to the ear device.
  • kits comprising an apparatus disclosed herein and instructions for use.
  • the kit can further comprise an ear device.
  • kits comprising (a) packaging an apparatus described herein; and combining the apparatus of (a) with instructions for use.
  • Also disclosed herein are methods of manufacturing an apparatus comprising: (a) attaching an electromagnet to a first end of an elongated section of the apparatus; and (b) electrically connecting a power source and a switch to the electromagnet, where the switch turns the electromagnet on and off.
  • the term “about” or “approximately” can mean within an acceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, “about” can mean about plus or minus 10%, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% of a given value. Alternatively, particularly with respect to biological systems or processes, the term can mean within an order of magnitude, within 5-fold, or within 2-fold, of a value.
  • a mammal can be any member of the Mammalian class, including but not limited to a human, a non-human primates such as a chimpanzee, an ape or other monkey species; a farm animal such as cattle, a cow, a horse, a sheep, a goat, a swine; a domestic animal such as a rabbit, a dog, and a cat; a laboratory animal including a rodent, such as a rat, a mouse and a guinea pig, and the like.
  • a non-mammal can include a bird, a fish and the like.
  • a subject can be a mammal.
  • a subject can be a human.
  • the human can be an adult.
  • the human can be a child.
  • the human can be from about age 0 tol8 years old.
  • the human can be from about age 18 tol30 years old.
  • the terms "subject” and “user” can be used interchangeably to describe the individual in which an apparatus described herein is used to manipulate an ear device in the ear canal of the individual.
  • the "subject” and “user” can be different individuals.
  • a subject can be the individual whom an apparatus described herein is used to manipulate an ear device in the ear canal of the individual while a user can be an individual that inserts or monitors the ear device after insertion in the subject's ear.
  • the terms “treat,” “treating”, “treatment,” “ameliorate” or “ameliorating” and other grammatical equivalents as used herein, can include alleviating, abating or ameliorating a disease or condition symptoms, preventing additional symptoms, ameliorating or preventing the underlying metabolic causes of symptoms, inhibiting the disease or condition, e.g., arresting the development of the disease or condition, relieving the disease or condition, causing regression of the disease or condition, relieving a condition caused by the disease or condition, or stopping the symptoms of the disease or condition, and are intended to include prophylaxis.
  • the terms can further include achieving a therapeutic benefit and/or a prophylactic benefit.
  • Therapeutic benefit can mean eradication or amelioration of the underlying disease being treated.
  • a therapeutic benefit can be achieved with the eradication or amelioration of one or more of the physiological symptoms associated with the underlying disease such that an improvement can be observed in the patient, notwithstanding that, in some embodiments, the patient can still be afflicted with the underlying disease.
  • transmission can refer to electronic exchange or communication between a pair of devices.
  • the exchange can occur though a wired connection between the pair of devices such as through the use of a USB cord or fiber optic connection.
  • the exchange can occur through a wireless connection between the pair of devices.
  • a wireless signal can be sent through a mobile data network such as a 4G LTE or G data signal.
  • a wireless signal can be sent through a Bluetooth connection.
  • a wireless signal can be sent through a Wi-Fi connection.
  • a wireless signal can be sent through an infra-red data association link.
  • electromagnet can refer to a type of magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current.
  • the electromagnet can be made from a coil of wire that acts as a magnet when an electric current passes through it but stops being a magnet when the current stops.
  • static magnet and “permanent magnet”, as used
  • the term "mechanical force” can refer to a contact force applied to an object that involves tension, pressure, friction, shear, or any combinations thereof.
  • electrostatic force can refer to an attraction or repulsion of an object because of its electric charge, for instance, two objects with like electric charges, both positive or both negative, repel each other, while two objects with opposite electric charges, attract each other.
  • magnetic force in some cases, can refer to an attraction or repulsion that arises between electrically charged particles because of their motion.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of an apparatus described herein, which can comprise an elongated section 1; a stop section 2 associated with the elongated section 1 along a second or proximal end; where the stop section 2 contacts a portion of an ear of the subject when the elongated section 1 is inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section 1 into the ear of the subject; an electromagnet 3 associated with a first or distal end of the elongated section 1; where the electromagnet 3 is magnetically attracted to a magnetic element 5 associated with the ear device 4; and a power source 6 and a switch 7 electronically connected to the electromagnet 3 through a control circuit 8; where the switch 7 turns the electromagnet 3 on and off.
  • the apparatus can be a one piece continuous article.
  • the elongate section 1 and the stop section 2 can be the same component.
  • the combined elongate section 1 and stop section 2 can be a conical article.
  • the apparatus can comprise a conical article 9 having a narrow end 10 and a wide end 11.
  • a portion 12 of the conical article 9 can have a diameter greater than a diameter of a subject's ear canal. This portion 12 of the conical article 9 could act to limit the insertion of the apparatus into the ear canal; thereby performing substantially the same function as the stop section 2 depicted in Fig. 2.
  • An elongate section 1 can be custom molded to fit a patient's ear canal. In other instances, a generic elongate section 1 can be used.
  • the elongate section of the device that is manipulated into the ear canal can be at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 6 mm, at least about 7 mm, at least about 8 mm, at least about 9 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 11 mm, at least about 12 mm, at least about 13 mm, at least about 14 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 16 mm, at least about 17 mm, at least about 18 mm, at least about 19 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 21 mm, at least about 22 mm, at least about 23 mm, at least about 24 mm, at least about 25 mm, at least about 26 mm, at least about 27 mm, at least about 28 mm, at least
  • the device that is manipulated into the ear canal can be at least about 1 cm, at least about 2 cm, at least about 3 cm, at least about 4 cm, at least about 5 cm, at least about 6 cm, at least about 7 cm, at least about 8 cm, at least about 9 cm, or at least about 10 cm in length.
  • An apparatus can be specifically configured depending on the application required. In some instances, an apparatus can be configured to fit into a right ear of a subject. In some instances, an apparatus can be configured to fit into a left ear of a subject. In some instances, an apparatus can be configured to fit into a right ear and a left ear of a subject. In some instances, an ear device in contact with the apparatus can be molded to specifically fit a subject's ear. In some instances, an ear device can be configured to adapt a general shape of an ear.
  • the elongate section and the stop section can be the same component.
  • An apparatus can be configured to fit into the conchal cavity of the ear and may be broadly convex or conical in form or shape.
  • apparatuses comprising: (a) a conical article having a narrow end and a wide end; (b) an electromagnet associated with the narrow end of the conical article; where the electromagnet is magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with an ear device; and (c) a power source and a switch
  • the device can comprise a conical article having a narrow end and a wide end.
  • a portion of the conical article can have a diameter greater than a diameter of a subject' s ear canal. This portion of the conical article could act to limit the insertion of the apparatus into the ear canal; thereby performing substantially the same function as the stop section.
  • an apparatus can be comprised of separate, modular components that can be fastened or joined to each other.
  • attachments that can be used to fasten or join components of the apparatus to one another can include a glue, an epoxy, a weld, a magnet, a screw, a ball bearing, a staple, a rivet, and any combination thereof.
  • the modular components of the apparatus can comprise low coefficients of friction at an attachment surface. In such a configuration, friction between the two surfaces can serve to fasten or join the components together.
  • an elongate section 1 can be an arm for insertion into the canal of the subject.
  • a stop section 2 can be a flange designed to contact an outer ear of the subject when the elongate section 1 inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the apparatus into the ear of the subject.
  • the flange can contact a pinna of a subject upon insertion of the elongate section 1.
  • the flange can further comprise a handle.
  • an elongate section 1 can be an arm and a stop section 2 can be a flange.
  • the apparatus may be formed from a resilient and compliant material.
  • Components of the apparatus can be flexible, flexible, or rigid depending upon the material used to construct the apparatus.
  • the apparatus can be composed at least in part of a material selected from the group consisting of a plastic, a silicon, a wood, a metal, a rubber, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a graphene, an aluminum mesh, a stone, a titanium compound, a paper, a marble, a cloth, a carbon fiber, a wax, gold, silver, platinum, palladium, tungsten, stainless steel, a jewel, and any combination thereof.
  • a plaster or similar moldable material can be used to construct an apparatus that can be custom molded to the ear canal of the subj ect.
  • Materials comprising at least the external surfaces of the apparatus can be non-allergenic, medical grade, and biocompatible.
  • an apparatus 13 can comprise flanges 2a and a flexible elongate section la sufficient to navigate the ear canal of the subject upon insertion.
  • the apparatus 13 can be used for insertion, removal or manipulation of an ear device 4 though association with a magnet 3a, which can be optionally wrapped in a soft material to prevent laceration of the ear canal.
  • an apparatus described herein can be wholly or partly biodegradable or recyclable.
  • individual modular components of the device can be composed at least in part of recyclable or a biodegradable material.
  • an eloneate section 1 can be at least partially biodegradable.
  • the elongate section 1 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%), 85%), 90%), 95%), or about 100% recyclable.
  • the elongate section 1 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%), 80%), 85%), 90%), 95%, or about 100% biodegradable.
  • the stop section 2 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or about 100% recyclable.
  • the conical article 9 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or about 100% biodegradable.
  • the conical article 9 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or about 100% recyclable.
  • the conical article 9 is at least about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or about 100% biodegradable.
  • an apparatus described herein can be wholly or partly reusable.
  • a portion of a device can be separated from the remainder of the apparatus for disposal while the remainder of the device is retained for further use.
  • a disposal probe or tip can be fastened to the magnet 5 in order to reuse the device without the need for sterilization.
  • the stop portion 2 can be separated and disposed of while the remainder of the device can be retained for further use.
  • a device can be at least partially collapsible to facilitate transport or storage of the apparatus when not in use.
  • an apparatus or a component of the apparatus has a length of at most about 3 cm, at most about 2.5 cm, at most about 2 cm, at most about 1.5 cm, at most about 1 cm, at most about 0.5 cm, at most about 0.4 cm, at most about 0.3 cm, at most about 0.2 cm, at most about 0.1 cm, or at most about 0.05 cm when at least partially collapsed.
  • An apparatus described herein may further comprise additional modification to perform additional functions.
  • the apparatus may comprise a light or camera to be used to visualize the ear canal of the subject upon insertion of the apparatus.
  • An apparatus can be constructed employing a visualization means by inserting, for example, a fiber optic light or camera through an aperture in the proximal end of the apparatus and threading said visualization means through the housing of the apparatus and out an aperture on the distal end of the apparatus.
  • a visualization means by inserting, for example, a fiber optic light or camera through an aperture in the proximal end of the apparatus and threading said visualization means through the housing of the apparatus and out an aperture on the distal end of the apparatus.
  • An apparatus described herein can contain a housing, which can have an elongate section 1 that is introduced into the ear canal (see e.g. Fig. 2).
  • the apparatus can have a magnet
  • An apparatus described herein can have a magnet that is not inducible as the
  • the magnet can be a static magnet (permanent magnet).
  • the apparatus can be configured to hold the ear device via at least a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic element of the ear device during the insertion of the apparatus into the ear, thereby inserting the ear device into the ear.
  • the ear device can be appropriately sized to the ear of the subject.
  • the size of the ear device can be configured in a way that when the ear device is inserted in the ear at a predetermined position, the friction between the ear device and the ear canal can be relatively large, so that when the apparatus is being removed from the ear, the magnetic attraction is unable to overcome the friction.
  • the friction between the ear and the ear device can overcome the magnetic attraction, consequentially detaching the ear device from the apparatus that is being removed from the ear.
  • the ear device can be inserted into the ear and retained at the predetermined position by using the apparatus having the static magnet, in some cases, without the need of activating and deactivating the electromagnet.
  • an apparatus can contain a mechanical means 15 to produce a translation of the translatable magnet 16 through mechanical actuation of a mechanical actuator 14.
  • the mechanical means can be a pulley, a string, a rubber or elastic band, a fiber, or a combination thereof.
  • the mechanical means 15 does not comprise a pin, a metal rod, a spring, or a combination thereof disposed in the elongated section.
  • the activity of the magnet at the distal end can be turned on or off, or polarity reversed by electric means, or by physical movement or rotation of the magnet (see e.g. Fig. 6).
  • an apparatus can have a plurality of magnets.
  • a magnet 3 localized on a distal end of an apparatus as depicted in Fig. 2 can be combined with a translatable magnet 16 as depicted in Fig. 5 to produce a magnet containing dual magnets as depicted in Fig. 7.
  • the mechanical switch 14 can be actuated to result in a translation of translatable magnet 16 from a proximal position 16a to a distal position 16b via mechanical means 15 in the direction of the magnet 3 localized on the distal end of the apparatus.
  • Translation of the translatable magnet 16 towards the localized magnet 3 can be used to manipulate the localized magnet 3, thereby manipulating an ear device 4 that is magnetically attracted thereto.
  • the localized magnet 3 can be fixed to the distal end by a fastening means (e.g. rod 17) that can allow for rotation of the magnet 3 alone an axis
  • a fastening means e.g. rod 17
  • Such rotation can occur when the polarity of the translatable magnet 16 is the same as that of magnet 3, such that proximity of translatable magnet 16 can cause a rotation of magnet 3 through magnetic repulsion.
  • Such rotation can be used to further manipulate eat device 4 in the ear canal.
  • a rotation of magnet 3 can cause a repulsion between magnet 3 and a magnetic element 5 of ear device 4, which can result in further insertion of the ear device 5 into the ear canal.
  • a combined embodiment as depicted in Fig. 7 can comprise both an electrical and mechanical actuation mechanism.
  • the translatable magnet 16 can be an electromagnet electronically connected to a power source 6 (see e.g. Fig. 2) by a wire, which can be attached to the mechanical means 15 such that the translatable magnet 16 can be translated distally and/or electronically actuated.
  • translatable magnet 16 can be used to precisely rotate magnet 3 along rod 17, and thereby manipulate ear device 4 within the ear canal in a controlled manner.
  • precise rotation of magnet 3 through electronic actuation of translatable magnet 17 can be used to orient an ear device after insertion without having to remove the ear device.
  • an array of electromagnets can be constructed along the distal end of the elongated section 1 in sequence.
  • switch 7 can be in the form of a touch screen or other input/output device to allow precise control of individual electromagnets in order to perform precise manipulations of the ear device within the ear.
  • individual magnets in the array can be actuated sequentially, while in other cases the array could be actuated all at once.
  • the magnet When the magnet is activated at the distal end, it will engage with a magnetic material on a device to be inserted in the ear canal.
  • the surface area of the ear device can be comprised at least in part of the magnetic material. In some cases, the surface area
  • comprising a magnet can be at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%), 97%), 98%), or 99% of the total surface area of the ear device.
  • the ear device can be comprised entirely of a magnetic material.
  • the apparatus can be comprised at least in part of the magnetic material.
  • the surface area of the apparatus comprising a magnet can be at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the total surface area of the apparatus.
  • the apparatus can be comprised entirely of a magnetic material.
  • the apparatus can comprise an orientation restriction section.
  • the orientation restriction section can be configured to maintain the orientation of the ear device consistent with the orientation of the insertion apparatus during insertion of the ear device into the ear.
  • the orientation restriction section can restrict the orientation of the ear device at least in part by mechanical force, electrostatic force, magnetic force, or any combination thereof.
  • Fig. 10 depicts an exemplary apparatus comprising an orientation restriction section.
  • the upper apparatus in the figure comprises an elongated section 1, a stop section 2, an orientation restriction section 17, and a magnet 3a.
  • the orientation restriction section 17 in this case is an offset from the magnet end of the apparatus. It is a hollow tubule in structure. As shown in the figure, a portion of the ear device is inserted into the orientation restriction section 17.
  • the orientation restriction section 17 can constrain at least a portion of the ear device inside its hollow tube structure, limiting the lateral movement when the ear device is being inserted into the ear, thereby preventing change in the orientation of the ear device.
  • the orientation restriction section can be of any form as long as it maintains the orientation of the ear device consistent with the orientation of the insertion apparatus during insertion of the ear device into the ear.
  • it can comprise a clamp, a partially or completely enclosed hollow structure, or both.
  • Examples of ferromagnetic materials can comprise at least one of alnico, bismanol, chromium (rV) oxide, cobalt, a complex oxide, dysprosium, fernico, ferrite (iron), ferrite (magnet), gadolinium, gallium manganese arsenide, a heusler compound, iron, KS Steel, magnadur, a magnetic semiconductor, magnetite, Metglas, MKM steel, a neodymium magnet, nickel, permalloy, a rare-earth magnet, a samarium-cobalt magnet, Sendust, Suessite, or a Yttrium iron garnet.
  • alnico bismanol, chromium (rV) oxide, cobalt, a complex oxide, dysprosium, fernico, ferrite (iron), ferrite (magnet), gadolinium, gallium manganese arsenide, a heusler compound, iron, KS Steel, mag
  • a magnet can have a predetermined magnetic field strength. In some cases, a magnet can have a variable magnetic field strength. In some cases, a magnet can have a magnetic field strength of about 0.05, 0.051, 0.052, 0.053, 0.054, 0.055, 0.056, 0.057, 0.058, 0.059, 0.06, 0.061, 0.062, 0.063, 0.064, 0.065, 0.066, 0.067, 0.068, 0.069, 0.07, 0.071, 0.072, 0.073, 0.074, 0.075, 0.076, 0.077, 0.078, 0.079, 0.08, 0.081, 0.082, 0.083, 0.084, 0.085, 0.086, 0.087, 0.088, 0.089, 0.09, 0.091, 0.092, 0.093, 0.094, 0.095, 0.096, 0.097, 0.098, 0.099, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14
  • an apparatus described herein can be used in conjunction with a wide array of ear devices that can be employed for various functions. While the figures provided herein depict an ear device of generally discoidal shape, the choice of ear device is not limited by this depiction.
  • an ear device described herein can be in communication with other devices, whether internal or external, in order to transmit data such as a result to the other device.
  • an ear device can comprise a storage medium to store information such as a hard drive, flash memory, etc.
  • an ear device described herein can upload data to cloud storage. Specific non-limiting examples of ear devices compatible with an apparatus described herein are discussed below in greater detail.
  • an ear device can be an earplug.
  • the ear plug can be comprised of a pliable material such as foam or rubber that can be compressed to a diameter less than the diameter of a portion of the subject's ear canal.
  • Insertion of foam earplugs as described in the art typically can comprise squeezing the earplug to decrease its diameter, placing the ear plug in the ear canal, and having it expand to occlude the ear canal.
  • foam earplugs may be generally designed longer than is acoustically needed, which can allow the ear plug to be manipulated from the outer portion of the subject's ear after insertion, and removed as needed.
  • One problem most earplugs in the art encounter is that, after insertion, they can be extruded out of the ear canal as they expand, thereby breaking the acoustic seal.
  • An apparatus as described herein can be used in tandem with an earplug in order to insert the ear plug deep into the ear canal of the subject, thereby preventing extrusion of the earplug from the ear canal.
  • An earplug can comprise a magnetic element that can be magnetically attracted to the magnet 3 of the apparatus, thereby allowing for insertion, removal or other manipulation of the earplug in the ear of the subject.
  • an earplug compatible with an apparatus described herein can be used in a variety of situations.
  • an earplug can be inserted deep into the ear canal in order to at least partially regulate sound waves transmitted into the ear canal of the subject.
  • the composition of the earplug can be adjusted to modulate the acoustics of the ear plugs to allow for greater or fewer sound waves transmitted into the ear after insertion.
  • Another example can include regulation of pressure transmitted into the ear of the subject.
  • the applicability of such an earplug could include situations that result in increased pressure being applied to the ear, such as deep diving or air flights.
  • the composition of the earplug can be adjusted to modulate the amount of pressure transmitted into the ear after insertion.
  • an ear device can be a communication device.
  • Examples of communication devices can include recording devices, transmission devices, receiving devices, translation devices, and authentication devices.
  • Recording devices could be used, for example in recording situations for later
  • transmission device could include transmitting a location from a wearer. In some situations, this could be used in reconnaissance missions, as law enforcement or military personnel could transmit a position to their colleagues in real time without the fear of discovery of the device.
  • Another example of use of such a transmission device could include inserting the ear device into the ear of an individual sentenced to house arrest. This device could be used as an alternative to ankle bracelets currently in use, with the advantage of being less cumbersome and potentially increasing compliance from the subject.
  • Further use of receiving devices can include replacement of cumbersome headsets and ear buds to listen to conversations, phone calls, directions, music, and other media.
  • an ear device capable of receiving transmission can be used by news casters as an alternative to the ear devices currently in use, which would allow the same functionality while concealing the device within the ear canal.
  • An ear device concealed in the ear could also be used as an alternative to ear phones that can be in communication with a smartphone or other device capable of transmitting media to the ear device such as a radio or mp3 player. As the ear device is placed within the ear canal, loss of the ear device could be mitigated relative to existing ear phones which can easily fall out of the ear.
  • Devices capable of recoding, transmission and receiving could be used in situations in which covert placement of a recording device could be beneficial.
  • an ear device capable of transmission and receiving could be used as an alternative to the use of wires in law enforcement or special operations. As the ear device could be placed deep within the ear canal and away from sight, a law enforcement individual could be protected from discovery of the device.
  • the ability to transmit instructions directly to the ear canal could also be used in similar situations. Because the instructions would be delivered to the ear canal of the wearer, the instructions could be isolated to the subject without fear of others being able to hear the instructions.
  • FIG. 1 Another example of a communication device compatible with an apparatus described herein is a translation device.
  • Examples translation ear devices can be found, for instance, in US8527280, US7676372, and US20030065504. Insertion of such a device deep within the ear canal using an apparatus described herein would be advantageous over existine translation devices in that they would be concealed within the ear. This concealment could allow for rapid translation of the foreign language to the subject without the knowledge by the person communicating to the user that a translator is in use. This could result in a more natural exchange between the user and the person they are communicating with.
  • a transmission device with an earplug as previously described to produce a device that employs transmission of destructive interference into the ear canal to minimize sound waves transmitted into the ear of the subject after insertion using a device described herein.
  • a device can include a noise canceling element capable of transmitting the destructive interference that can be imbedded in a foam ear plug to be inserted into the ear canal.
  • the apparatus upon actuation can be used to turn the noise canceling element on or off when the device is in contact with the ear device.
  • an ear device compatible with an apparatus described herein can be a device used for authentication.
  • the authentication device can act as a means, be it primary or in combination with other means such as passwords, biometric, etc, to provide access.
  • an ear device can be inserted into the ear canal that can act as a key fob. This could allow the subject to access, for instance, controlled access areas simply by
  • Another example could be the use of a device that acts as an access token through electronic transmission between the ear device and a device requiring authentication. Such control could be used in tandem with a password to produce additional layers of security and minimize the risk of outside intrusion.
  • an ear device compatible with an apparatus described herein can be a medical device.
  • medical devices can include hearing aids, diagnostic devices, and devices capable of treatment to the subject.
  • Hearing aids can include deep in ear canal (DIC) hearing aids, examples of which are disclosed in US Patent Application 12/841,120.
  • DIC hearing aids comprising magnetic elements can be inserted into the ear of the subject through an apparatus described herein, either by the subject directly or another individual.
  • An apparatus described herein can further be used to actuate (i.e. power on or off) the DIC hearing aid when in contact with the ear device.
  • an apparatus described herein can be used to manipulate the placement/orientation of the hearing aid through manipulation of the magnet attached to the distal end of the apparatus as described above.
  • a device placed within the ear canal of the subject can be used to monitor signals corresponding to various vital signs in the subject.
  • an ear device can be an electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring device. Examples of such devices compatible for ear placement can be found in US 20110004089.
  • EEG electroencephalogram
  • Such a device can be used to detect electrical signals in the brain of the subject, which can be used to diagnose disorder such as sleep disorders such as sleep apnea; brain trauma; and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's disease.
  • a diagnostic device can include a device capable of monitoring cardiovascular parameters of a subject within the ear canal such as pulse, dissolved oxygen level, blood pressure, etc.
  • cardiovascular parameters of a subject within the ear canal such as pulse, dissolved oxygen level, blood pressure, etc.
  • examples of such devices can include ear oximeters as described in US 3412729 and US 2706927. Such a device can be used to determine a likelihood of a
  • cardiovascular disease such as a stroke or heart attack in real time from within the ear canal.
  • the result can then be communicated to an external device and used to guide potential treatment by a healthcare professional.
  • a diagnostic device can further comprise means to measure and record other vital signs when placed in the ear of the subject.
  • a thermometer can be appended to an ear device to measure an electrical signal corresponding to a body temperature of the subject.
  • an ear device can detect signals that correlate to species in circulation in a blood vessel. For instance, a device can monitor a salinity level, a dissolved oxygen level, or a glucose level in a blood vessel.
  • a device for ameliorating a condition or disease using an apparatus as described herein.
  • the use of a device that transmits destructive interference as described above can be used to at least partially ameliorate an ear condition such as tinnitus that has been shown to be treatable through the use of listening devices (see e.g. US Publication No. 20120308060).
  • a magnetic field generator can be incorporated into an ear device such that, when actuated, a disorder can be partially ameliorated. Examples of such disorders can include a migraine; a loss of taste; a loss of smell; Parkinson disease; a depression disorder; major depression disorder; and any combination thereof.
  • an ear device can comprise jewelry that can be visible from the outside of the ear canal upon insertion using the apparatus.
  • a magnet into the inner ear using the apparatus.
  • the magnet when inserted into the inner ear, could be used to attract objects containing magnetic elements, and thereby stabilize them on the outer ear of the subject.
  • a piece of jewelry such as an earring can be stabilized on the outer ear through magnetic attraction without the need for additional piercings.
  • objects such as magnetic headphones (see e.g. US Pub No. 20150195639) can be stabilized on the outer ear of the subject though magnetic attraction to the magnet placed in the ear canal, thereby minimizing loss of the magnetic earphone from falling from the outer ear.
  • An ear device may also be coated in a disposable material such as a cloth or cotton to be sued to remove ear wax from an ear.
  • a magnetic element can be wrapped in the disposable material similar to the magnet 3a depicted in Fig. 4. This ear device can be inserted using an apparatus described herein, and can be subsequently rotated within the ear canal of the subject, thereby collecting and removing excess wax from the ear canal.
  • the method can comprise inserting an ear device comprising a magnetic element into the ear of the subject comprising inserting an apparatus described herein into the ear of the subject, where the apparatus is in contact with the magnetic element of the ear device through a magnetic attraction.
  • the magnet of the apparatus can be activated to produce a magnetic attraction between the ear device and the magnet of the apparatus.
  • the elongate section of the apparatus can be introduced along with the ear device into the ear canal.
  • a flange on a proximal end of the device can contact an outer ear of a subject, and thereby prevent over insertion of the elongate section into the ear canal.
  • the activity of the magnet within the housing can be released, thereby removing the magnetic attraction between the apparatus and the ear device.
  • the activity of the magnet is released through activating a switch on the apparatus, thereby electrically powering off the magnet.
  • a device with a mechanical actuator such as depicted in Fig. 5 can be actuated to mechanically disengage the magnet from the ear device.
  • the apparatus can then be removed, while the ear device remains in the position deep in the ear canal.
  • the ear device comprising a magnetic element can be manipulated by apparatuses that comprise a non-inducible permanent magnet.
  • the magnet is an electromagnet
  • the activity of the magnet is released through activating a switch on the apparatus, thereby electrically powering off the magnet.
  • a device with a mechanical actuator such as depicted in Fig. 5 can be actuated to mechanically disengage the magnet from the ear device.
  • the apparatus can then be removed, while the ear device remains in the position deep in the ear canal.
  • the manipulation can comprise insertion of the ear device into an ear of a subject using an insertion apparatus.
  • the insertion apparatus can comprise an elongated section; a stop section associated with the elongated section; and a magnet associated with a first end of the elongated section.
  • the stop section can contact a portion of an ear of a subject when the elongated section is inserted into an ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject.
  • the magnet can be a permanent magnet.
  • the magnet can be configured to be magnetically attracted to the magnetic element of the ear device.
  • the insertion apparatus can be configured to hold the ear device during its insertion into the ear via at least a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic element of the ear device, thereby inserting the ear device into the ear.
  • the insertion apparatus can be removed from the ear, leaving the ear device retained at the predetermined position.
  • the ear device can be appropriately sized to the ear of the subject, such that when the ear device is inserted at the predetermined position and the insertion apparatus is being removed from the ear, a friction between the ear and the ear device can overcome the magnetic attraction to detach the ear device from the apparatus, thereby retaining the ear device at the predetermined position.
  • the manipulation of the ear device can comprise removal of the ear device from the predetermined position in the ear using a removal apparatus.
  • the removal apparatus can comprise an elongated section and a magnet associated with a first end of the elongated section.
  • the magnet can be a static magnet.
  • To remove the ear device from the predetermined position in the ear one can insert the removal apparatus into the ear in such a manner to produce a magnetic attraction between the magnet of the removal apparatus and the ear device, and then remove the removal apparatus.
  • the magnet can be configured to be magnetically attracted to the magnetic element of the device.
  • the removal apparatus can be configured to hold the ear device during its removal from the ear via at least a magnetic attraction between the removal apparatus and the magnetic element of the device.
  • the magnetic attraction can overcome the friction, thereby pulling the ear device out of the ear when the apparatus is being removed from the ear.
  • the polarity of the magnet may be reversed (either electrically, or by mechanical rotation of a permanent magnet, or by translation of another oppositely oriented magnet). This will allow for physical repulsion of an ear device containing a magnet element, and thereby further insertion of the ear device deep in the ear canal beyond the physical reach of the arm of the insertion device.
  • the insertion of the ear device into the ear canal results in a concealment of the ear device within the ear canal such that the ear device is not visible from the outside of the ear.
  • the method of insertion can be a method of concealing objects within the ear canal.
  • a method can comprise removing an ear device comprising a magnetic element from the ear of the subject comprising inserting an apparatus described herein into the ear of the subject.
  • the elongate section of the apparatus can be introduced along with the ear device into the ear canal.
  • the activity of the magnet within the housing can be positively actuated, thereby producing a magnetic attraction between the apparatus and the ear device.
  • the magnet is an electromagnet
  • the activity of the magnet is powered on through activating a switch on the apparatus, thereby electrically powering on the magnet.
  • a device with a mechanical actuator such as depicted in Fig.
  • the apparatus 5 can be actuated to mechanically engage the magnet from the ear device.
  • the magnet is positively activated prior to the insertion of the apparatus into the ear canal.
  • the apparatus can be removed from the ear canal, thereby removing the ear device from the ear of the subject.
  • an ear device can have a magnetic element that can engage with the magnet of an apparatus described herein.
  • the magnetic element 5 on the ear device can be a ferromagnetic element that will be attracted to the magnet 3 on the distal end of the apparatus.
  • the magnetic element 5 can be a ferrimagnetic element.
  • the magnetic element 5 can be an antiferromagnetic element.
  • the magnetic element of the ear device may have a specific polarity and orientation. Further, it may also contain an array of magnets which can allow engagement and attraction to a magnet of the apparatus in a specified orientation. This will allow specification of the rotational orientation of the ECO within the ear canal.
  • a method can comprise: (a) inserting an apparatus described herein into the ear of the subject; (b) activating an electromagnet; thereby providing a magnetic attraction between the magnetic element of the ear device and the electromagnet; and (c) manipulating the apparatus; thereby manipulating the ear device in the ear of the subject.
  • a manipulation can comprise manipulation of depth such as distally or proximally translating the ear device within the ear canal, manipulation of orientation of the ear device, or rotation of the ear device within the ear canal.
  • an insertion apparatus may be used to insert an ear device that does not contain a magnet. Rather, the insertion device can be used to insert the ear device mechanicallv rather than through magnetic attraction. To remove the ear device, a retrieval apparatus comprising a fixed magnet can be used that is separate and distinct from the insertion device.
  • the ear device comprises a linker, and the magnetic element is associated with the ear device through the linker.
  • the linker can be elongatable, like a spring made of any type of materials (e.g., metal, plastic), or an elastomer.
  • the linker is not elongatable, but it can switch from a resting loose state and an extended tight state. In some cases, it can be a soft string.
  • the soft string can be made of cotton, pulp, linen, bamboo, kenaf, silk wool, viscose rayon, copra, lyocell, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutyrene terephthalate, nylon, polyacrylic, or any combination thereof.
  • the ear device comprises a magnetic element 5, as well as a linker 18 that associates the magnetic element 5 to the main body of the ear device 19.
  • the figure depicts an exemplary process of manipulating the ear device from an ear using exemplary apparatuses as disclosed herein.
  • the apparatus comprises an elongated section 1, a stop section 2, and a magnet 3a, which, for instance, can be used to insert the ear device into an ear, or any other of movement/transportation of the ear device.
  • both of the apparatuses comprise an elongated section 1, a stop section 2, and a magnet 3b.
  • the bottom apparatus contacts the magnetic element 5 of the ear device and pulls it so that the linker 18 can be extended to be longer than a resting state as depicted in panels (a) and (b).
  • the removal of the ear device from an ear of a subject can comprise: removing the apparatus until at least a portion of the linker is extended to outside of the ear; and pulling the linker to remove the ear device.
  • an apparatus described herein can be assembled from modular components that can be attached together to form an apparatus.
  • a method of manufacturing an apparatus can comprise: (a) attaching an electromagnet to a first end of an elongated section of the apparatus; and (b) electrically connecting a power source and a switch to the electromagnet, where the switch turns the electromagnet on and off.
  • a stop section such as a flange can be attached to a second or proximal end of the apparatus, where the stop section contacts a portion of an ear of a subject when the elongated section is inserted into the ear of the subject, thereby preventing further insertion of the elongated section into the ear of the subject.
  • the apparatus can be molded plastic.
  • An apparatus can comprise an elastomer body with various features to aid in the process of placing the earplug and retrieving the earplug.
  • the apparatus can include safety features and features to aid the user during use.
  • the apparatus can comprise thermoplastic, liquid silicone rubber (LSR), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), or a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) parts.
  • these parts could be machined, injection molded, cast, sintered, and/or 3D printed.
  • the electromagnet can be made of a metal coil through which electricity is run through to generate the magnetic field.
  • the coil could be of any gauge size. In some embodiments, the coil can be between 12 to 36 gauge. In certain cases, the coil can be made of conductive material, for instance, copper. In some embodiments, the coil can have a protective coating. In certain cases, the coating can be an enamel.
  • the apparatus can have sections to control the heat generated by the electromagnet when the electricity is passing through. In certain circumstances, this can involve an active cooling feature, like a fan or heat sink.
  • the ear device can be an elastomer or an elastomeric material overmolded on a ferritic or magnetic material (permanent magnet) and a portion of the ferritic or magnetic material can be exposed out of the elastomer.
  • the elastomer can be liquid silicone rubber (LSR), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), or a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
  • LSR liquid silicone rubber
  • TPE thermoplastic elastomers
  • TPU thermoplastic polyurethane
  • the elastomer can comprise a hardness as determined by a durometer.
  • an elastomer can be comprise a durometer hardness of from 5 to 100 shore A, from 10 to 100 shore A, from 15 to 100 shore A, from 20 to 100 shore A, from 25 to 100 shore A, from 30 to 100 shore A, from 35 to 100 shore A, from 40 to 100 shore A, from 45 to 100 shore A, from 50 to 100 shore A, from 55 to 100 shore A, from 60 to 100 shore A, from 70 to 100 shore A, from 75 to 100 shore A, from 80 to 100 shore A, from 85 to 100 shore A, from 90 to 100 shore A, from 95 to 100 shore A, from 10 to 80 shore A, from 20 to 80 shore A, from 30 to 80 shore A, from 40 to 80 shore A, from 50 to 80 shore A, from 60 to 80 shore A, or from 70 to 80 shore A.
  • an elastomer can be comprise a durometer hardness of about 5 shore A, about 10 shore A, about 15 shore A, about 20 shore A, about 25 shore A, about 30 shore A, about 35 shore A, about 40 shore A, about 45 shore A, about 50 shore A, about 55 shore A, about 60 shore A, about 65 shore A, about 70 shore A, about 75 shore A, about 80 shore A, about 85 shore A, about 90 shore A, about 95 shore A, or about 100 shore A.
  • a ferritic or magnetic material can be manufactured by a grinding, machining, casting, or sintering process. In certain cases, the ferritic or magnetic material may also have a coating to protect from corrosion.
  • the coating may be an electroplating (typically nickel), a powder coating, or a porcelain enamel coating.
  • the ferritic or magnetic material may be placed in the elastomer tool and the elastomer can be injected around it (i.e. overmolding).
  • the ferritic or magnetic material can have features, geometric and surface, to help retain the elastomer.
  • the features may include, but not limited to, undercuts, jogs, holes, and texture.
  • multiple plugs can be overmolded on a single continuous piece of the ferritic or magnetic material. Post the overmolding process the piece of the ferritic or magnetic material can be cut into sections where each resultant section may become an individual plug.
  • the ferritic or magnetic material itself may need to be corrosion resistant and biocompatible or a secondary coating may need to be applied to the cut ends.
  • the earplug can be an elastomeric material overmolded on a ferritic or magnetic material and a portion of the ferritic or magnetic material is not exposed out of the elastomer.
  • the ferritic or magnetic material may not have a corrosion resistant coating since the elastomer can be the coating to protect it.
  • the earplug can be an injection molded elastomeric material and a ferritic or magnetic material can be inserted in the elastomer post the elastomer molding.
  • the elastomer may be molded with a cavity that the ferritic or magnetic material can be inserted into. In certain cases, the cavity can be expanded or stretched to provide better access to the ferritic or magnetic material and to aid in retention.
  • kits comprising an apparatus described herein and instructions for use. These kits can be assembled in suitable packaging for shipment and storage of the apparatus. Furthermore, a kit can further comprise an ear device described herein as a packaged set. Such packaged sets can further comprise instructions for use of the ear device as well as the apparatus.
  • kits comprising assembling an apparatus described herein and instructions for use, and packaging the combination together in appropriate packaging.
  • an ear device described herein can also be added to the packaging.
  • a foam earplug containing a ferromagnetic element in the form of a disk or sphere, as depicted in Fig. 2, is inserted into an ear using an insertion device.
  • the actuation switch of the device it flipped to the on position, thereby activating the electromagnet attached to the distal end of the insertion device.
  • the ear device is attached to the insertion device through magnetic attraction between the electromagnet of the insertion device and the ferromagnetic element of the earplug.
  • the insertion apparatus is introduced into the ear canal at a
  • the actuator switch is switched to the off position, thereby turning off the electromagnet and removing the magnetic attraction between the electromagnet and ferromagnetic element of the earplug.
  • the insertion apparatus is then removed from the ear, leaving the earplug inserted deep within the ear canal of the subject.
  • An ear device designed for transmission of a Bluetooth signal and containing a ferromagnetic element is inserted into an ear using an insertion device. Briefly, a wireless actuation switch is depressed, thereby activating the electromagnet attached to the distal end of the insertion device. The ear device is attached to the insertion device through magnetic attraction between the electromagnet of the insertion device and the ferromagnetic element of the ear device. The insertion apparatus is introduced into the ear canal at a predetermined depth corresponding to the depth of the subject's ear canal. A flange attached to the proximal end of the insertion device prevents further insertion of the device and apparatus into the ear canal beyond the desired depth.
  • the wireless actuator switch depressed again, thereby reversing the polarity of the electromagnet and creating a magnetic repulsion between the electromagnet and ferromagnetic element of the ear device.
  • the insertion apparatus is then removed from the ear, leaving the ear device concealed deep within the ear canal of the subject.
  • the ear device is then paired with a receiver device capable of receiving the Bluetooth signal.
  • a hearing aid containing a magnetic element that has previously been inserted into the ear of a subject can be retrieved using a retrieval device comprising a magnet that can be mechanically translated from a proximal end to a distal end of the apparatus through mechanical actuation of a pulley.
  • the retrieval device is inserted into the ear of the subject while the magnet is in the proximal position.
  • a flange attached to the proximal end of the insertion device prevents further insertion of the device and apparatus into the ear canal beyond the desired depth.
  • the pulley is actuated to cause a translation of the magnet from the proximal end of the apparatus to the distal end, thereby producing a magnetic attraction between the hearing aid and the retrieval device.
  • the retrieval device is then removed from the ear, thereby also removing the hearing device from the ear.
  • Example 4 - Manipulation of Ear Plug with Magnetic switch An ear device containing a magnetic switch can be manipulated by an apparatus disclosed herein. The magnetic switch is maneuverable by a magnetic force to switch the ear device between different work modes.
  • Fig. 12 shows an ear device 20 that comprises a magnetic switch 21.
  • the ear device 20 is an earplug that regulates pressure or acoustic waves transmitted therethrough to the ear at different efficiencies via the magnetic switch 21.
  • the magnetic switch 21 can be either in an "OFF" position, as shown in the upper panel, that leaves the earplug open to the pressure or acoustic waves to pass through, or in an "ON" position in the bottom panel, that blocks the earplug, so that the pressure or acoustic waves passing through can be blocked or attenuated.
  • An apparatus as disclosed herein used to move the magnetic switch between "ON” and “OFF” positions can therefore switch the work modes of the earplug, in which the pressure or acoustic waves transmitted through the ear plug are regulated at different efficiencies.
  • a discoidal magnet is inserted into an ear using an insertion device.
  • the actuation switch of the device is flipped to the on position, thereby activating the electromagnet attached to the distal end of the insertion device.
  • the magnet is attached to the insertion device through magnetic attraction between the electromagnet of the insertion device and discoidal magnet.
  • the insertion apparatus is introduced into the ear canal at a predetermined depth corresponding to the depth of the subject's ear canal.
  • a flange attached to the proximal end of the insertion device prevents further insertion of the device and apparatus into the ear canal beyond the desired depth.
  • the actuator switch is switched to the off position, thereby removing the electromagnetic attraction between the electromagnet and ferromagnetic element of the ear device.
  • Fig. 13 shows an exemplary set of the discoidal magnet and the magnetic ear phone.
  • the discoidal magnet 22 comprises a magnetic element 23. It is first inserted into the ear canal using an insertion device (not shown) as shown in the upper right schematic. After removal of the insertion device (not shown), the magnetic ear phone 24 that comprises a magnet 25 is inserted into the outer ear to produce a magnetic attraction between the head phone and the discoidal magnet 22, as shown in the bottom right schematic.
  • Example 5 Alternative designs
  • pictures of an insertion tool, a removal tool picture, and earplugs with and without flange are shown.
  • an insertion tool with offset from the end that has the magnet and a removal tool with flush at the magnet end are both shown.
  • the offset from the magnet end constitutes the orientation restriction section according to some embodiments disclosed herein.
  • the magnets of both the insertion tool and the removal tool as shown in the picture are static magnets.
  • Fig. 15 shows pictures of two different manners of gripping the apparatus disclosed herein.
  • the upper two pictures show a handpiece grip tool, which has two holes that fit for inserting two fingers of the operator's one hand and another hole for inserting the apparatus.
  • the apparatus is thereby manipulated by the two fingers of the operator as shown in the upper right picture.
  • the pictures at the bottom show the "Q-tip" type of grip, where the apparatus is gripped directly by two fingers of the operator's one hand, like a "Q-tip".
  • FIG. 16 shows a series of pictures demonstrating a process of inserting an earplug into an ear model and removing the earplug from the ear model using an insertion tool and a removal tool, respectively.
  • the insertion tool, removal tool, and the earplug with flange in this figure are the same as shown in Fig. 14.
  • an ear plug comprising a magnetic element is attached to an insertion comprising a fixed magnet through magnetic attraction.
  • the ear plug is inserted into the ear canal at a predefined depth of about 2 cm.
  • the insertion apparatus is removed from the ear, while frictional force retains the ear plug within the ear.
  • the frictional force is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction from the insertion device, thereby resulting in retention of the ear device within the ear canal.
  • the ear device can be removed using a separate removal device.
  • the removal device comprises a stronger magnet than the insertion device.
  • the removal device comprises a magnetic with sufficient strength to overcome the frictional force holding the ear device within the ear.
  • the removal device is inserted into the ear, causing magnetic attraction with the magnetic element of the ear plug.
  • the removal device is removed from the ear, thereby removing the ear plug from the ear canal.
  • An ear oximeter designed for measuring pulse, dissolved oxygen level, and blood pressure containing an iron ferromagnetic element is inserted into an ear using an insertion device that comprises an electromagnetic coil on a proximal end of the insertion device.
  • an actuation switch on the power source operatively linked to the electromaenetic coil is depressed, thereby activating the electromagnet.
  • the ear oximeter is attached to the insertion device through magnetic attraction between the electromagnet of the insertion device and the ferromagnetic element of the ear device.
  • the insertion apparatus is introduced into the ear canal at a predetermined depth of about 3 cm.
  • a marker on insertion device is present and can be used to determine the appropriate depth.
  • the marker lines up with the outside of the ear canal when the insertion device is inserted to the appropriate depth.
  • the actuation switch depressed again, thereby powering off the electromagnet.
  • the insertion apparatus is then removed from the ear, leaving the ear device concealed deep within the ear canal of the subject.
  • the ear device is then paired with a receiver device capable of receiving the Bluetooth signal.
  • An ear plug 20 as substantially depicted in Figure 12 is inserted as described above in Example 1.
  • the ear plug 20 contains a flap 21 the comprises a magnetic element.
  • manipulation device configured with a weak fixed magnet similar to the insertion device of Example 7 can be used to manipulate the flap 21.
  • the manipulation device can comprise the fixed magnet in an orientation such that the flap 21 is pulled either upwards or downwards by a rotation of the manipulation device.
  • the fixed magnet of the manipulation device is strong enough to manipulate the flap 21, but is not strong enough to remove the ear plug 20 from the ear canal.
  • a separate removal device as described in Example 7 can be used to remove the ear plug 20.
  • Example 10 Alternative arrangement of magnetic element
  • An ear device 19 as depicted in Figs. 11 A-l 1C can be inserted using an insertion device 1 comprising a fixed magnet 3a on a distal end of the insertion device 1.
  • the insertion device contains a stop element 2 to prevent further insertion of the insertion device 1 into the ear canal.
  • the ear device 19 comprises a ferrite magnetic element 5 attached to the ear device 19 by a spring 18.
  • the ear device 19 comprising the ferrite magnetic element 5 and spring 18 are not visible from the outside, and the spring 18 is in a relaxed position within the ear canal.
  • a removal device as depicted in Figure 1 IB comprising a fixed magnet 3b on a distal end of the removal device can be used to remove the ear device 19.
  • the ferrite magnetic element 5 is magnetically attracted to the magnet 3b. Removing the removal device from the ear allows the magnetic element 5 to be removed from the ear canal while retaining the ear device 19 within the ear canal.
  • the spring 18 is in a stretched position in this configuration.
  • the ear device 19 can be fully removed from the ear canal by pulling on the spring 18 and ferrite magnetic element 5 further using forceps or fingers.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Physiology (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Cardiology (AREA)
  • Psychiatry (AREA)
  • Emergency Medicine (AREA)
  • Computer Vision & Pattern Recognition (AREA)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AREA)
  • Neurology (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Psychology (AREA)
  • Magnetic Treatment Devices (AREA)
  • Headphones And Earphones (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne des appareils pour la manipulation d'un dispositif auditif dans le conduit auditif d'un sujet. L'invention concerne également des procédés d'utilisation desdits appareils pour l'insertion, le retrait ou autres manipulations du dispositif auditif. L'invention concerne également des procédés de fabrication des appareils, et des kits contenant l'appareil avec des instructions à utiliser.
PCT/US2017/064180 2016-12-01 2017-12-01 Appareil de manipulation de dispositifs auditifs WO2018102664A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP17875211.9A EP3549357A4 (fr) 2016-12-01 2017-12-01 Appareil de manipulation de dispositifs auditifs
US16/465,883 US11564042B2 (en) 2016-12-01 2017-12-01 Apparatus for manipulation of ear devices
US18/066,009 US20230224647A1 (en) 2016-12-01 2022-12-14 Apparatus for manipulation of ear devices

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201662428697P 2016-12-01 2016-12-01
US62/428,697 2016-12-01
US201762577527P 2017-10-26 2017-10-26
US62/577,527 2017-10-26

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US16/465,883 A-371-Of-International US11564042B2 (en) 2016-12-01 2017-12-01 Apparatus for manipulation of ear devices
US18/066,009 Continuation US20230224647A1 (en) 2016-12-01 2022-12-14 Apparatus for manipulation of ear devices

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2018102664A1 true WO2018102664A1 (fr) 2018-06-07

Family

ID=62242010

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2017/064180 WO2018102664A1 (fr) 2016-12-01 2017-12-01 Appareil de manipulation de dispositifs auditifs

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (2) US11564042B2 (fr)
EP (1) EP3549357A4 (fr)
WO (1) WO2018102664A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3662874A1 (fr) * 2018-12-05 2020-06-10 Nokia Technologies Oy Appareil et écouteurs pour enlever le cérumen

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11290804B1 (en) 2021-07-29 2022-03-29 David Beavers Sound control ear cup, tinnitus treatment device, and hearing protection device
US12035111B2 (en) * 2022-01-21 2024-07-09 Gn Hearing A/S Method for providing visual markings on a connector for a hearing device
US20230239637A1 (en) * 2022-01-21 2023-07-27 Gn Hearing A/S Connector and a hearing device comprising said connector

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060126876A1 (en) * 1998-10-28 2006-06-15 Insound Medical, Inc. Remote magnetic activation of hearing devices
US20110206225A1 (en) 2010-01-29 2011-08-25 Oticon A/S Hearing aid and handling tool
US20120201408A1 (en) * 2008-12-04 2012-08-09 Schindler Robert A Insertion Device For Deep-In-The-Canal Hearing Devices
US20130223666A1 (en) 2012-02-25 2013-08-29 Florent Michel Hearing Aid Insertion, Positioning and Removal Apparatus and System
US20140073835A1 (en) * 2009-02-25 2014-03-13 University Of Maryland Device and methods for directing agents to the middle ear and the inner ear
US20160192050A1 (en) * 2014-10-30 2016-06-30 Smartear, Inc. Smart Flexible Interactive Earplug

Family Cites Families (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2706927A (en) 1949-08-04 1955-04-26 Research Corp Apparatus for determining percentage oxygen-saturation of blood
US3412729A (en) 1965-08-30 1968-11-26 Nasa Usa Method and apparatus for continuously monitoring blood oxygenation, blood pressure, pulse rate and the pressure pulse curve utilizing an ear oximeter as transducer
US4756312A (en) 1984-03-22 1988-07-12 Advanced Hearing Technology, Inc. Magnetic attachment device for insertion and removal of hearing aid
US5003608A (en) 1989-09-22 1991-03-26 Resound Corporation Apparatus and method for manipulating devices in orifices
US6055319A (en) 1997-11-06 2000-04-25 Decibel Instruments, Inc. Selectable handle for hearing devices
JP4439740B2 (ja) 1999-02-16 2010-03-24 有限会社ジーエムアンドエム 音声変換装置及び方法
US20030065504A1 (en) 2001-10-02 2003-04-03 Jessica Kraemer Instant verbal translator
US8527280B2 (en) 2001-12-13 2013-09-03 Peter V. Boesen Voice communication device with foreign language translation
US7388961B2 (en) 2004-02-05 2008-06-17 Insound Medical, Inc. Removal tool and method for extended wear canal devices
US8300871B2 (en) * 2007-11-05 2012-10-30 Mwm Acoustics, Llc Earphone for wideband communication
CN101502418B (zh) 2008-02-05 2011-05-04 周常安 耳戴式脑电检测装置
KR101042104B1 (ko) * 2008-10-01 2011-06-16 (주)알고코리아 귓속 삽입형 범용 보청기를 위한 표준 이어 쉘의 제조방법
EP3355594B1 (fr) 2009-07-22 2022-10-05 Eargo, Inc. Prothèse auditive pour conduit auditif ouvert
DE102010006359A1 (de) 2010-02-01 2011-08-04 Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. Hörsystem mit Positioniervorrichtung und entsprechendes Positionierverfahren
EP2741525B1 (fr) 2011-06-06 2020-04-15 Oticon A/s Diminution du niveau sonore de tintement par traitement d'instrument auditif
US9609420B2 (en) 2014-01-09 2017-03-28 Apple Inc. Earphones with left/right magnetic asymmetry
US10325584B2 (en) * 2014-12-10 2019-06-18 Stmicroelectronics S.R.L. Active noise cancelling device and method of actively cancelling acoustic noise

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060126876A1 (en) * 1998-10-28 2006-06-15 Insound Medical, Inc. Remote magnetic activation of hearing devices
US20120201408A1 (en) * 2008-12-04 2012-08-09 Schindler Robert A Insertion Device For Deep-In-The-Canal Hearing Devices
US20140073835A1 (en) * 2009-02-25 2014-03-13 University Of Maryland Device and methods for directing agents to the middle ear and the inner ear
US20110206225A1 (en) 2010-01-29 2011-08-25 Oticon A/S Hearing aid and handling tool
US20130223666A1 (en) 2012-02-25 2013-08-29 Florent Michel Hearing Aid Insertion, Positioning and Removal Apparatus and System
US20160192050A1 (en) * 2014-10-30 2016-06-30 Smartear, Inc. Smart Flexible Interactive Earplug

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP3549357A4

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3662874A1 (fr) * 2018-12-05 2020-06-10 Nokia Technologies Oy Appareil et écouteurs pour enlever le cérumen

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3549357A1 (fr) 2019-10-09
US20200000406A1 (en) 2020-01-02
US20230224647A1 (en) 2023-07-13
EP3549357A4 (fr) 2020-06-17
US11564042B2 (en) 2023-01-24

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20230224647A1 (en) Apparatus for manipulation of ear devices
CA2654134C (fr) Appareils auditifs a conduction osseuse et procedes
CN107683162B (zh) 耳蜗植入物及使其mri兼容的方法、耳蜗植入物系统
US8811643B2 (en) Integrated cochlear implant headpiece
DE60334002D1 (de) Teilplantierbares hörhilfegerät
WO2004082632A3 (fr) Dispositifs medicaux
WO2011047160A3 (fr) Dispositif de transfert d'énergie magnétique transcutané
US20220331598A1 (en) Multipole magnet for medical implant system
KR101747958B1 (ko) 귀속 치료 장치 및 귀속 치료 장치의 구동 방법
Wagner et al. Magnet resonance imaging safety of the Vibrant Soundbridge system: a review
CN117999801A (zh) 隐藏式人工耳蜗系统
SI24438A (sl) Frekvenäśni stimulator
CN111050844B (zh) 促进人工耳蜗系统组件的对准的系统和方法
WO2015184014A1 (fr) Appareil pour hématome auriculaire supportant la pression
US20220032048A1 (en) Advanced implanted magnet management in the face of external magnetic fields
CN107334577B (zh) 用于核磁共振检查的消音耳机
US8972020B2 (en) Coil cable for an implantable medical device
JP7222352B2 (ja) 骨伝導音響伝達装置
KR101611683B1 (ko) 변연 접착부를 지닌 자성체 내장 실리콘 겔 시트
JPH05317354A (ja) 磁気耳栓
US20230208193A1 (en) Inductive charging case
WO2023135465A1 (fr) Système et procédé de détermination de force de rétention magnétique pour dispositif médical
JP2559078B2 (ja) 磁気を使用した耳介健康器具
Gupta The Sound Seeker's Handbook: Unbiased Reviews and Insights for Cochlear Implant Selection
Galletti Are Cochlear Implants the Right Answer?

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 17875211

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2017875211

Country of ref document: EP

Effective date: 20190701